Lady Archers rout rivals Lady Eagles to stay unbeaten

The De la Salle University Lady Archers notched their fifth win of the UAAP Women’s Basketball Tournament after edging archrivals Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles, 48-39, Sunday at the Blue Eagle Gym.

Last season’s champions trailed 0-7 early in the first quarter, but went on a 15-2 in the remaining four minutes to take a 15-9 lead heading into the second quarter. La Salle’s assault continued in the second quarter, holding the Ateneans to 8 points while draining 14 to take a commanding 29-17 lead going into halftime.

After trailing by as much as 20 in the third quarter, the Lady Eagles would begin away to chip at La Salle’s lead for most of the second half, eventually trimming down La Salle’s lead to single digits, 48-39 with less than three minutes remaining after holding the Lady Archers to four points in the quarter. With time on La Salle’s side, the defending champions would hold on to the lead despite their deteriorated offense.

Cass Santos had 8 points, along with 4 rebounds, an assist and a steal to lead La Salle, who did not have a single player to score double digits despite the win. Danica Jose led Ateneo with 17 points, 22 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

The Lady Archers are currently unbeaten at 5-0, while the Lady Eagles now fall to 2-3, their third consecutive loss after winning their first two assignments of the season.